So why are dramas so difficult to pitch? It’s because dramas are execution driven, not pitch driven. The scripts have to be read to be fully understood and appreciated. That’s why no High Concept films can be dramas.

High Concept films, by definition, are easily pitchable and understood by anyone who hears the logline. High Concept premises are unique and clever. Dramatic material is not. High Concept is also meant for a wide audience while dramas have a more limited appeal.

Take the movie, Kramer Vs. Kramer. The pitch would be: a divorcing couple battles for the custody of their son. There’s nothing special about that pitch. It’s all in the execution on the screen.

Going further, there are drama’s that are virtually impossible to pitch. In Pulp Fiction for example the logline would be something like… two philosophical hit men are out on a job.” It’s obvious that the pitch is vague and unsatisfying. It’s not possible to grasp the depth of that story without actually reading the screenplay or seeing the movie. All these reasons make dramas a difficult, though not impossible, sell.

Steve Kaire is a Screenwriter/Pitchman who’s sold 8 projects to the major studios without representation. His top rated CD, “High Concept – How to Create, Pitch & Sell to Hollywood” is available on his website: HighConceptScreenwriting.com. His site also offers original articles & national screenwriting contests.

2 Comments

Melody Lopez

October 13th, 2010

This is a really awesome point. I’m practicing with a bunch of people preparing to pitch to a producer next week during AFF…and I did write a high concept film…but I realize the “log line” to a true story…sounds sort of flat…but its cause of what you describe…you’d have to know the full story to appreciate its depth… thanks for the tip!

About Debra Eckerling

Debra Eckerling is a professional writer with expertise in feature articles, communications, public speaking, social media, and live networking. She also works with individuals, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to set goals and manage their projects. Call 310.908.8980 or contact deckerling@gmail.com for rates and more information.

About Write On!

Write On! is a Writers Support Group, focusing on goal-setting, troubleshooting, and networking.

About Debra Eckerling

The leader of Write On!, Debra has been a professional writer for more than 15 years. She has expertise in feature articles, corporate communications, and public speaking. Write On! is a virtual writers support group, which helps writers of all abilities, mediums, and specialties take their projects to the next level.